Lateral flexion images of the cervical spine will demonstrate which of the following?

• A. Open intervertebral foramen
• B. Spinous processes well separated
• C. Spinal column from C1-T2
• D. Mandibular rami not superimposed

Answer: (B)

Lateral flexion of the cervical spine is designed to show how the posterior elements move when the head is bent to one side. As you tilt laterally, the vertebrae rotate slightly and the spinous processes diverge, creating noticeable separation between adjacent spinous processes on the radiograph. That separation is the hallmark sign you’re looking for in this view, confirming that lateral bending has been achieved and allowing assessment of vertebral alignment and motion.

The other statements don’t reflect what this view specifically reveals. Opening intervertebral foramina is not the defining feature of a lateral flexion view, the entire spinal column range from C1 to T2 isn’t what’s being demonstrated, and mandible positioning (about whether the mandibular rami are superimposed) relates more to general lateral-view technique than to the distinctive change produced by lateral bending.